Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine
Off Topic => Sports Arena => Topic started by: villasjf on October 05, 2010, 09:51:24 AM
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When I was younger I used to go to the Birmingham Brummies speedway at Perry Barr and loved it, the noise the smell the atmosphere. Then it closed. Its back now i know. I was watching the final last night between Poole Pirates and Coventry Bees. Bees were leading from first leg by 12 points but in that sport that can easily be overcome. Coventry won comfortably in the end but a few things struck me about the sport. during one race Harris (Coventry) came off his bike at full pelt and was run over by his team mate, it looked horrendus, ambulance on track etc. minutes later Hariis rises, then runs to the pits to get his bike. The heat was restarted and he one in spectacular fashion. (He must have been hurting) The second point was that if their bikes arn,t up to scratch they borrow a team mates. The third point was a great display by a 19 year old Polish rider. I hardly saw an english rider. In the end Coventry won easily. What a display.
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When i was a babby it was a family outing to the speedway, Living on the Beeches it was a cut through the gully onto Walsall rd and a brisque walk. Graham Warren, Tiger Hart were heroes and it was very affordable.
Dad always made us walk back which was a pain.
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God I'm old.
As a little kid I used to stand at the bottom of the steps at the Alex sports ground and run up them as the riders spewed the shale over the fence. Never forgot the smells and noise, or moms chastisement as she scrubbed me clean.
Then when it started up again at the Perry Barr stadium we went regularly to watch the spills and action, even though it was Div 2 and not the best quality rides. Remember the noise, the smell, the camaraderie, the music, the freshly cooked doughnuts and the ride home on my Norton.
Every time I hear Chirpy, Chirpy Cheap, Cheap on the radio my mind flashes back to standing on the straight at the start finish line.
Villa during the winter, Brummies in the summer, happy times.
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http://www.birminghampost.net/midlands-birmingham-sport/west-midlands-sports/other-sport/2010/08/19/drury-so-proud-as-brummies-bring-speedway-title-to-birmingham-65233-27095038/
The BRUMMIES won the National League as well this year.
Hey SFX I had a Norton Commando 850 in those days too.
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Used to go in the 70's, still go now and again, it's a good night.
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Used to go in the late 70s, early 80s to Boston Barracudas in Lincolnshire.
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Used to go to Cradley in the early, mid 80's.
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Villa during the winter, Brummies in the summer, happy times.
Went in the 70's for about 3 seasons with a school friend. Strangely, had in my memory it was a winter sport. Recall George Major and Dane Parsons. Remember catching the bus back to Sutton at the end. I was early to mid teens. Couldn't imagine letting my kids do that journey at night time now.
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When I was younger I used to go to the Birmingham Brummies speedway at Perry Barr and loved it, the noise the smell the atmosphere. Then it closed. Its back now i know. I was watching the final last night between Poole Pirates and Coventry Bees. Bees were leading from first leg by 12 points but in that sport that can easily be overcome. Coventry won comfortably in the end but a few things struck me about the sport. during one race Harris (Coventry) came off his bike at full pelt and was run over by his team mate, it looked horrendus, ambulance on track etc. minutes later Hariis rises, then runs to the pits to get his bike. The heat was restarted and he one in spectacular fashion. (He must have been hurting) The second point was that if their bikes arn,t up to scratch they borrow a team mates. The third point was a great display by a 19 year old Polish rider. I hardly saw an english rider. In the end Coventry won easily. What a display.
I thought he was a cert for hospitalisation, last nights final was some of the best speedway of the year for 10 heats then the unbreakable 'bomber' Harris turned the screw in covs favour.
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Of course dear old Doug was promotor of Birmingham Speedway in about 1960
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Been going to Speedway for 30plus years...not everyones cup of tea I know but have always loved it. As a Poole fan it was gutting to see them "lose" the league. Finish top of the League by 20 points and lose the "league title" in a play off against the team that finished 4th (and very strongly...good side).
Fair play to Coventry, those are the rules but unfortunately Sky have interfered far too much with the make up of the league and the introduction of the play off's. Keeps it interesting to the end, which of course Sky wanted, but makes a farce of the league.
No brakes, fearless riding...they should show a clip of the Harris incident to Drogba. No moans, no groans, wipe yourself down and get on with it...
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This is why Speedway is great.
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Used to go to Cradley in the early, mid 80's.
My old man used to take me there around the same time. I'm not really that into motorsports but there was a great atmosphere.
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I remember a mate of mine at school went to see the World Speedway final at Wembley ( musy have been between 1979-1981). There were 100,000 there.
I can remember Bruce Penhall ( didn't he move from Cradely Heath to being the star of CHIPS?) and Ivan Majors ( spelling?) the Polish, Kiwi hero, Hans neilsen and Davbe Jessup
and Ole Ollsen.
Used to be able to hear the bikes racing from our house
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I was at that Wembley Final - all those airhorns made it a much better atmosphere than watching
football there.
I think that final was probably a high point of British Speedway and its all been downhill since then.
Only two British riders have had the potential to be genuine superstars but both failed, Michael
Lee due to a drugs problem and Kenny Carter blew his brains out after shooting dead his wife.
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http://sports.ladbrokes.com/en-gb/speedway/speedway-grand-prix/2011-speedway-grand-prix-e214529272
All the betting for next years GP's if anyones interested.
The Russian at 7/1 looks tidy for me.
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I fancy Crump at 7-2 to win it. A little bit each-way on Holder at 33-1.
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I fancy Crump at 7-2 to win it. A little bit each-way on Holder at 33-1.
Sounds like a plan ;)
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Birmingham Brummies have been promoted to the Elite League, should be an exciting time for Speedway in this City. Especially with derbys against Wolves & Coventry.
British Speedway site (http://www.speedwaygb.com/news.php?extend.9591)
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Except that Coventry will probably not be running next season...
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Except that Coventry will probably not be running next season...
Just googled this & nothing, do you have inside info.
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At the sport's AGM at the weekend, some decision were made that 2 teams just couldn't live with (rumoured to be over assessed and converted averages for new signings), and Coventry and Peterborough walked out. Hasty plans have been made to bring the Elite League up to 8 (the minimum number stipulated by Sky) by creating a new team, backed by the other 7, at either Oxford or Sittingbourne. Peterborough and Coventry would have their assets stripped from them, and neither would stage speedway in 2011, if indeed ever again. Not confirmed but VERY strong rumours.
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At the sport's AGM at the weekend, some decision were made that 2 teams just couldn't live with (rumoured to be over assessed and converted averages for new signings), and Coventry and Peterborough walked out. Hasty plans have been made to bring the Elite League up to 8 (the minimum number stipulated by Sky) by creating a new team, backed by the other 7, at either Oxford or Sittingbourne. Peterborough and Coventry would have their assets stripped from them, and neither would stage speedway in 2011, if indeed ever again. Not confirmed but VERY strong rumours.
According to the Coventry Telegraph there was to be a meeting today to decide what will happen to both Cov and P'boro, no news as yet.
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At the sport's AGM at the weekend, some decision were made that 2 teams just couldn't live with (rumoured to be over assessed and converted averages for new signings), and Coventry and Peterborough walked out. Hasty plans have been made to bring the Elite League up to 8 (the minimum number stipulated by Sky) by creating a new team, backed by the other 7, at either Oxford or Sittingbourne. Peterborough and Coventry would have their assets stripped from them, and neither would stage speedway in 2011, if indeed ever again. Not confirmed but VERY strong rumours.
According to the Coventry Telegraph there was to be a meeting today to decide what will happen to both Cov and P'boro, no news as yet.
Coventry and Peterboro both threw hissy fits over the new average limits so withdrew from the league....now it seems they could be back in...ongoing talks with the BSPA.
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I was at that Wembley Final - all those airhorns made it a much better atmosphere than watching
football there.
I think that final was probably a high point of British Speedway and its all been downhill since then.
Only two British riders have had the potential to be genuine superstars but both failed, Michael
Lee due to a drugs problem and Kenny Carter blew his brains out after shooting dead his wife.
Peter Collins won the world title. Malcolm Simmons was runner up a few times....both superstars of Speedway but pre the era of Lee and Carter. Since then, yep we've been also rans...in fact not even that close.
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I was at that Wembley Final - all those airhorns made it a much better atmosphere than watching
football there.
I think that final was probably a high point of British Speedway and its all been downhill since then.
Only two British riders have had the potential to be genuine superstars but both failed, Michael
Lee due to a drugs problem and Kenny Carter blew his brains out after shooting dead his wife.
Peter Collins won the world title. Malcolm Simmons was runner up a few times....both superstars of Speedway but pre the era of Lee and Carter. Since then, yep we've been also rans...in fact not even that close.
Apart from Mark Loram in 2000.
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Shame on me for leaving him out...never post when dosed up on copius amounts of lemsip and painkillers!! I'm a bloody lifetime Pirates fan as well...
Great rider was Loram. Brave as they come. Shame some horrific injuries ended it all early for him. Won the World Title without winning a single Grand Prix.
I guess Tai Woffenden is our next hope. Although I think Holder, Ward and Sibutinov will pose a greater challenge from the youngsters...
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I think Woffinden long term, but if Harris can start next season aswell as he finished last year he may be a good outside bet. I think next years GP's will be the most open we've seen for a while, my moneys on the russian.
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I think Woffinden long term, but if Harris can start next season aswell as he finished last year he may be a good outside bet. I think next years GP's will be the most open we've seen for a while, my moneys on the russian.
Yes agree, should be a cracker. I'm on the Ruski as well. Harris is so frustrating. Looks nigh on unbeatable in the Elite League sometimes, then just is never consistent in the GP's. Bit of bias but Holder could be worth an E/W, the guy oozes class.
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British GP apart, Holder bottles the big occasion. Harris's downfall is in that a lot of the GPs are on slick tracks, gater's paradises, and he's a racer.
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Holder bottles the big occassion? Can't agree there. He's hardly been in any big occassions....only 23, first year in the GP's and didn't look out of place, won the big one, qualified for next year. He'll be world champion within the next 5 years...
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Holder bottles the big occassion? Can't agree there. He's hardly been in any big occassions....only 23, first year in the GP's and didn't look out of place, won the big one, qualified for next year. He'll be world champion within the next 5 years...
Play-off final? ;)
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When the Heathens still ran from Cradley I used to be able to hear and smell the speedway from my garden, yet I never actually went. It's something I do regret.
They almost came back last year but their application for a stadium on the land they identified was turned down.
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Holder bottles the big occassion? Can't agree there. He's hardly been in any big occassions....only 23, first year in the GP's and didn't look out of place, won the big one, qualified for next year. He'll be world champion within the next 5 years...
Play-off final? ;)
Bottled or just had a bad meet? Hmm thought you meant BIG meetings...not the sky play offs !! ;-)
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Whilst on holiday in France over New Year I got to chat with Len Silver, ex-rider and former England Speedway manager. He's now a track owner/promoter and still skiing every day at 78.
A really interesting guy to talk to.
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He's a legend. Just released an autobiography.
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He's a legend. Just released an autobiography.
I ordered that whilst I was in France. It should arrive any day now.
If it wasn't for the daughter of Len's business partner letting slip who he was (ie the owner of the Ski company and a speedway legend), we'd have just thought that he was "Len the old ski guide".
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Looks like this could turn nasty.
Coventry Statement (http://www.coventrybees.co/news.php?extend.1445)
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It's absolutely going to turn nasty. From what I know, Coventry and Peterborough have a very good case against the BSPA, and certain individuals there from the south coast and the black country should be sweating a little. I think the nearer it gets to going to court, the more pressure will be put on those individuals to back down and accept Coventry & Peterborough back under compromise conditions. If it goes to court, it will fundamentally change the way speedway is run in this country, which may not be a bad thing, but will certainly end the genetlemen's agreements and backhanders that proliferate currently.
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I'm hearing rumours that the BSPA are doing a deal with Cov & P'boro this week to enable them to compete this year, not sure what it is though but I hope something can be sorted because starting a season without the defending champions is ridiculous.
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I'm hearing rumours that the BSPA are doing a deal with Cov & P'boro this week to enable them to compete this year, not sure what it is though but I hope something can be sorted because starting a season without the defending champions is ridiculous.
But Poole are riding this season..
Oh, you mean the sky play off winners ;-)
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I'm hearing rumours that the BSPA are doing a deal with Cov & P'boro this week to enable them to compete this year, not sure what it is though but I hope something can be sorted because starting a season without the defending champions is ridiculous.
But Poole are riding this season..
Oh, you mean the sky play off winners ;-)
tut tut, good job i've got a beer in my hand & 3 days off work or i'd be hitting these keys with a lot more force ;D
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No speedway this year for Cov or P/Boro.
Coventry Bees statement (http://www.coventrybees.co/)
British Speedway Statement (http://www.speedwaygb.co/news.php?extend.10045)
Peterborough Panthers Statement (http://www.peterboroughspeedway.net/)
It's a shame I was hoping they could resolve it somehow. This season will be a false one now without 2 of the top 4 sides competing.
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Sky are looking for a way out of their TV contract - they don't want a league that has no reigning champions in it!
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I remember a mate of mine at school went to see the World Speedway final at Wembley ( musy have been between 1979-1981). There were 100,000 there.
I can remember Bruce Penhall ( didn't he move from Cradely Heath to being the star of CHIPS?) and Ivan Majors ( spelling?) the Polish, Kiwi hero, Hans neilsen and Davbe Jessup
and Ole Ollsen.
Used to be able to hear the bikes racing from our house
Erik Gundersen broke the track record at that meeting, in his first world final. The record stood until they pulled the old wembley down
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When the Heathens still ran from Cradley I used to be able to hear and smell the speedway from my garden, yet I never actually went. It's something I do regret.
They almost came back last year but their application for a stadium on the land they identified was turned down.
They're back now as the Dudley Heathens, not sure where they're racing though. Think it might be Wolverhampton
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When the Heathens still ran from Cradley I used to be able to hear and smell the speedway from my garden, yet I never actually went. It's something I do regret.
They almost came back last year but their application for a stadium on the land they identified was turned down.
They're back now as the Dudley Heathens, not sure where they're racing though. Think it might be Wolverhampton
Correct.
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When the Heathens still ran from Cradley I used to be able to hear and smell the speedway from my garden, yet I never actually went. It's something I do regret.
They almost came back last year but their application for a stadium on the land they identified was turned down.
They're back now as the Dudley Heathens, not sure where they're racing though. Think it might be Wolverhampton
Correct.
My missus won't go until they're known as Cradley Heathens again, she reckons the present side can't survive without it's own ground.
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I remember a mate of mine at school went to see the World Speedway final at Wembley ( musy have been between 1979-1981). There were 100,000 there.
I can remember Bruce Penhall ( didn't he move from Cradely Heath to being the star of CHIPS?) and Ivan Majors ( spelling?) the Polish, Kiwi hero, Hans neilsen and Davbe Jessup
and Ole Ollsen.
Used to be able to hear the bikes racing from our house
Erik Gundersen broke the track record at that meeting, in his first world final. The record stood until they pulled the old wembley down
I went to the Wembley Final, 1981. One of the best meetings I have seen and yes about 100,000 in there. Atmosphere was the best I have ever experienced at Wembley
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The saga (http://www.coventrybees.co/) continues.
Nicki Pedersen (http://speedwaygp.com/en/newsdetail/a2470?SID=d89cc8f1fc56da83923720e117454d6d)
All parties should be ashamed of themselves for whats happened this winter.
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It's blatant self-promotion, but I made a radio feature on the Brummies team for my university radio sports show this week, and it'd be nice to know that anyone out there's listening to it...
Brummies feature (http://soundcloud.com/rich6by7/speedway-feature)
Hope some of you can make the time to have a listen.
Cheers,
R6x7
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Just got back from the Brummies v Wolves challenge trophy meet. Wolves won 46 - 44 with Freddie Lindgren getting a maximum, the brummies will need to up their game in this league, they lead by 6 points going into the last 3 heats. Still enjoyed my speedway fix though, october to march is a long time to wait.
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Watching the Brummies v Poole on sky, 18-18 after 6 heats. Danny King riding well for us, some decent racing, it'll be a big confidence boost if Brum win this meet.
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Good meeting. Thought it was going to be gate and go for a bit.
Doyle was the difference in the end. Looks like a good set up at Brum. King and Kaz look quick round there.
Good start for Pirates...Ward back in a few weeks as well. But it's all about them daft play off's isn't it...
Now if Sky could just get rid of Tatum as a commentator...
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Decent meeting, even with Poole operating an illegal Rider Replacement for Darcy Ward. The Brummies have themselves to blame for losing, though - Barker & Kasprzak falling, and Nermark unable to remember the proper racing line from lap to lap...
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Good win for Poole tonight away at wolves, they look as good as last year to me. Chris Holder may be worth an each way punt in the GP's, not many riders make Lindgren look average at Monmore.
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Interesting that Sky put up a league table with Coventry and Peterborough in it. The agreement to let them back in the league still hasn;t been signed by one man - Matt Ford of Poole - but Sky have told the BSPA that Coventry and Peterborough are back in, and they'll see Matt Ford in court if he doesn't sign soon!
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Poole look very good again this year. Ward still to come back as well. Holder looked a class act. As you said, not many will beat Freddie and PK round Monmore...Think he's gonna be a future world champ, but then I am a biased Pirates fan...
Am glad Coventry and Peterborough are back in...whatever the politics and who's right or wrong. Just wish it would clean up it's act and have an independent governing body. Sky having such a big influence in the rules and make up of the league irks me no end. But, Speedway needs Sky.
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For all there ills, sports such as Speedway & Darts hugely benefit from Sky. As for the Cov & P/boro situation Sky are trying to do what the rest of us want to do, such as bring this chaos to an end. I somehow get the feeling though that this season will end up as one of the best ever.
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Went to Leicester last night - lovely little set-up and a decent shaped track. Team is not so good, but a bright future beckons methinks!
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Enjoyed watching the Elite league pairs last night, there was some good racing. Although he's a hate figure I think it's good to see Pedersen back in british speedway. Poole got there tactics just right, Holder seems in fine form going into this weeks first GP. I'm backing Sayfutdinov to win with a crafty couple of quid on Harris to finish in the top 3 overall.
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Good meeting the pairs was. Wish they would reintroduce the world pairs. Good decision by Watt to drop out and let Ward partner Holder. Ward looks very quick this year. Also great to see Nicki P back. Not my favourite rider but he certainly adds something.
Grand Prix is pretty open this year. Can never right off Crump, Nicki and Gollob but I too reckon Sayfutinov has a great chance. Would be great for the league if Harris and Holder were there or thereabouts as well. Might be too early for Holder yet though..
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Not a great first GP. Track was so slick it didn't make for great racing at all. Pretty much gate and get out the first corner in front and job done.
Hopefully next one will provide more racing.
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That GP was even worse...awful conditions, hats off to them for getting on with it.
And well done Noddy Holder, 2nd GP win..more to follow. Class act.
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Rumours say Emil Sayfutdinov to Coventry...
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Rumours say Emil Sayfutdinov to Coventry...
I wish it was the Brummies.
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Rumours say Emil Sayfutdinov to Coventry...
Very strong rumours as well. Cracking signing for them if true. Assuming it's to replace Anderson?
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Yeah, short term, at least at first - who's to say what will happen if he gets a taste for it!
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Getting ready to watch the british final tonight, apart from the usual suspects (Harris, Nicholls etc) I think Lewis Bridger & Danny King are in with a chance. I'll be supporting King & Ben Barker because of the brummies connection. Should be a good contest.
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Well done to Scott Nicholls, a record 6th title (i'm led to believe). He usually shows up well at the British gp so it's probably just as well he won.
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Good GP last night. Seems like the old guard of Crump, Gollob and Hancock will take some beating. Class is permanent and all that. Nicki P's strop was very amusing as well!
Being bias but Holder looks more and more like the real deal. Another final, another podium finish, two GP wins under his belt in less than a year and would have made another final in the last GP had he not picked up and bailed off.
Terrible news about Leigh Adams this week...thoughts are with him.
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Ditto about Leigh Adams.
Last night was the first gp i've enjoyed so far this season, i'm really desperate for a young rider to edge out the old guard but it doesn't look like happening yet. As good as Holder is Crump & co have a consistency that he can't compete with YET!!!
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Gollob was immense last night, as were Crump and Hancock. Bit disappointed in Sayfutinov of late but no doubt he'll come again.
Top 5 for Holder this year would be great for him...as you say, not quite ready to knock the big boys off their perch on a regular basis just yet...
British GP should be an absolute snorter...
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Sayfutdinov is struggling because there's no dirt on the tracks - it's very difficult to pass, and he's one with top notch machinery, too. I wonder what would happen with him - and Harris - if they actually used speedway tracks rather than smooth runways?
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Same for everyone though...Gollob And Crump don't seem to have a problem passing. Emil will get better and better though that's for sure. Harris is, well Harris. Looks a world beater some days, other days just not in it.
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Who's the best rider you have seen whilst following Speedway? I've been going since I was 12 and am 40 odd now but would have to say Rickardsson, despite seeing Mauger, Collins, Penhall, Hans Anderson, Gundersson and co.
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I watched from 88 to 94, and the from 07 to now, so I missed out on Rickardsson, really. No-one ever touched Hans Nielsen, for me. Just ultra-professional. Hated him, though :)
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Yes, I meant Neilson actually, not Anderson. Funnily enough I hated him as well, but he was pure class I have to admit. Rickardsson was something pretty special...
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Anyone going Cardiff on saturday?
My 4th time there. Cant wait!
Fancy Hancock to win this weekend always rides well at cardiff and been unlucky the last few years there especially in 07 when Bomber got him on the last bend. Think Harris might be worth an each way bet too- rode well in Denmark last week, same track composition as cardiff so you'd expect him to put in a similar perfomance
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Can't go this weekend but really looking forward to it.
Crump or Holder for me. Sneaky outside bet for Nicky P maybe.
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I am going to Cardiff on Friday. We are stopping for 2 nights, come back sunday. A great week-end expected. I suppose i will have to buy Warren Aspinals beer . Crumpy for me + a bit each-way on Harris. :D
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I am going to Cardiff on Friday. We are stopping for 2 nights, come back sunday. A great week-end expected. I suppose i will have to buy Warren Aspinals beer . Crumpy for me + a bit each-way on Harris. :D
U goin the practice on friday?
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I am going to Cardiff on Friday. We are stopping for 2 nights, come back sunday. A great week-end expected. I suppose i will have to buy Warren Aspinals beer . Crumpy for me + a bit each-way on Harris. :D
U goin the practice on friday?No. We wont get there until about 7 oclock in the evening due to my daughter being a teacher. Plenty of beer to be drunk from 7 onwards though.
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I am going to Cardiff on Friday. We are stopping for 2 nights, come back sunday. A great week-end expected. I suppose i will have to buy Warren Aspinals beer . Crumpy for me + a bit each-way on Harris. :D
don't forget me aswell dad
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Originally I was going for Crump this year, but Hancock seems to be having an indian summer so i'm gonna back him. It will be especially enjoyable this year as i'm drinking Bald Eagle & Pongo49s beer.
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I'll watch it on TV, but on the whole I hate the GPs and what they've done (not only them, I'll admit) to the sport in this country. Bring back the one-off final!!!
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Must admit I hate the current Elite League play off system.
One off world finals again would be absolutely immense. I suppose the current format gives it to the best consistently but it does take the edge of it for me.
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Originally I was going for Crump this year, but Hancock seems to be having an indian summer so i'm gonna back him. It will be especially enjoyable this year as i'm drinking Bald Eagle & Pongo49s beer.
When you've had a fiver on Greg Hancock to win & predicted it before hand, it is both arrogant & appropriate to quote yourself.
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In truth though this years championship is wide open, Hancock has a big lead but can he sustain it. If not the pack behind is close knit & any one from 6 can win, out of the winter chaos we could be witnessing one of the best speedway seasons ever.
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Agree. Seems to be wide open this year. Hancock is looking good though. Like you said can he sustain it? Emil looked back on track as well, much quicker. Gollob will come again that's for sure and Holder is getting better and better. Hampel and Crump still in the mix. Should be close.
Good shout on the bet...!! ker....ching.
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Watched the british team in the world cup last night, although I never really expected us to beat the poles I was left wondering what might have been if we had a better start. At least we've got hope for Thursday, i'd make just one change & bring in Stead (experience) for Barker.
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I watched a bit of this last night. The commentators were saying that one of the Polish riders was a world-beater when riding in internationals but crap when he's riding for the Brummies
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I watched a bit of this last night. The commentators were saying that one of the Polish riders was a world-beater when riding in internationals but crap when he's riding for the Brummies
Kasprzak?, thats a true statement, he's been a major letdown for the brummies this season. We've actually done quite well despite his performances.
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Looks like it's Hancocks year, the rest seem to be beating each other whilst he keeps picking up 15 points or so. I think the 15 riders in this years gp's are probably the strongest set for years. It's a shame those who run the sport don't seem to realise it.
What does everyone think about the quality of the refs though, is it us fans who moan to much? or are they genuinely shite?
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They are generally shite...!! They should give ex riders the chance to become ref's. And they may as well do away with the phone from the pits...in all my time following speedway never once have I seen a ref change his mind.
Poor decision at the GP's saturday when the the tapes went up unevenly. How can they review it and then just say ah well, never mind..
Hancocks been immense this year. Looked down and out Saturday and bounced back brilliantly. It's nice that virtually anyone one could give any given GP. Holder, Hampel, Sayfitinov, Lindback (of late), Bjerre, Lindgren, Andreas...there's a lot now capable of challenging.
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Congrats to Greg Hancock, I thought this year was unusual as most of the gp's were shit to be honest, but everyone kept beating each other which made it interesting until the end.
Pos Pts
1 Greg Hancock 164
2 Andreas Jonsson 124
3 Jaroslaw Hampel 122
4 Jason Crump 110
5 Tomasz Gollob 106
6 Emil Sayfutdinov 106
7 Chris Holder 101
8 Kenneth Bjerre 101
9 Fredrik Lindgren 90
10 Nicki Pedersen 88
11 Chris Harris 74
12 Andtonio Lindback 72
13 Rune Holta 53
14 Janusz Kolodziej 50
15 Artem Laguta 28
WILDCARDS & SERIES RESERVE
16 Darcy Ward 21
17 Magnus Zetterstom 19
18 Thomas H Jonasson 17
19 Matej Zagar 9
20 Scott Nicholls 5
21 Damian Balinski 4
22 Matej Kus 3
23 Bjarne Pedersen 3
24 Mikkel B Jensen 2
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So another season over...well done Hancock, sublime achievement.
And Poole carry off the title. Not everyone's favourite club (except mine!) but well deserved and best team over the season. I detest the play off's they are a farce but with sky, they are hear to stay.
Will be absolutely gutted to see Ward and Holder split from the team if the only one 8 point rider rule per team rule is enforced...(daft rule). Holder's a class act but Darcy Ward really is something else....I hope he accepts the wild card for the GP's next year, but seems he may have to turn it down due to his Polish Team and the fact that they only allow one GP rider per team over there..
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If Ward Or Holder have to leave Poole, i would hope the Brummies might pick up one of them. A proper number one rider would elevate our standing in the sport.
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It's a daft rule IF it happens....it deprives us all of having top class riders in the league. Both Ward or Holder would boost gates and elevate clubs. Can't see Poole letting Ward go for love nor money...the boy really is exceptional, and still only 19
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Rory Schlein beat Scott Nicholls on the line to win the EL Riders Championship. Apparently Chris Harris caused havoc in one of the semis.
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2012 GP line up.
1 (1) Greg Hancock
2 (2) Andreas Jonsson
3 (3) Jarosław Hampel
4 (4) Jason Crump
5 (5) Tomasz Gollob
6 (6) Emil Sayfutdinov
7 (7) Kenneth Bjerre
8 (8. Chris Holder
9 (9) Fredrik Lindgren
10 (10) Nicki Pedersen
11 (11) Chris Harris
12 (12) Antonio Lindbäck
13 (13) Bjarne Pedersen
14 (14) Piotr Protasiewicz
15 (15) Darcy Ward
Harris is lucky, I get the feeling next year is do or die.
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Can't wait to see Darcy Ward in the GP's, he could upset a few. Thought he was going to turn it down so he could ride for his Polish club who have the "only 1 GP rider per team" rule.
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Ward has turned down a place in the GPs. So has Protasiewicz. Talk has it that Martin Vaculik and Scott Nicholls will be offered places.
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I found this excellent column (http://www.methanolpress.com/2011/10/speedway-grand-prix-series-2012-wild-card-refusal-on-financial-grounds-becomes-a-real-option-for-darcy-ward/)about Ward, it explains in details what the new Polish rules could mean for the gp's.
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I found this excellent column (http://www.methanolpress.com/2011/10/speedway-grand-prix-series-2012-wild-card-refusal-on-financial-grounds-becomes-a-real-option-for-darcy-ward/)about Ward, it explains in details what the new Polish rules could mean for the gp's.
Good article and spot on. The whole thing needs a shake up if they are going to keep audiences, over here especially. The play off's, the tacticals, the only one rider over 8.0 average per team...
Given those sums of money quoted it's a no brainer for Ward....
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I found this excellent column (http://www.methanolpress.com/2011/10/speedway-grand-prix-series-2012-wild-card-refusal-on-financial-grounds-becomes-a-real-option-for-darcy-ward/)about Ward, it explains in details what the new Polish rules could mean for the gp's.
I'd imagine he has bigger worries at the moment, too
Good article and spot on. The whole thing needs a shake up if they are going to keep audiences, over here especially. The play off's, the tacticals, the only one rider over 8.0 average per team...
Given those sums of money quoted it's a no brainer for Ward....
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Peter Ljung has replaced Protesiewicz? in the Gp's, Darcy Ward has also pulled out but no replacement yet.
It looks like speedway is determined to keep hold of the title for 'the sport that likes to shoot itself in the foot'. If riders are choosing domestic titles/cash over the prestige of the gp's, then in my opinion that's a very worrying thing to happen. I'm not sure what the solution should be other than scrapping the gp's & having a champs league style domestic competition, but on reflection that idea is probably unworkable.
What does everyone else think?
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Yes the GP's have been getting filtered every year due to this. It's not even the top riders in the world anymore but more like "well, most of them" mainly due to the Polish clubs one GP rider per team rule. I don't blame the riders, they aren't in the football wage bracket and the Polish Clubs pay massive wages and signing on fees, but it does devalue the GP's none the less.
The clubs need to have just team building points limit and be done with it. We've scrapped the ridiculous 1 rider over 8 points only farce this year thank god. It's caused a lot of fuss down here because of Ward & Holder but if they both d0 stay, that's going to really hammer Pooles points limit.
And get rid of the play off's. If you finish top of the league, you've won it. Have a seperate comp for the top 4 if they want. But as long as Sky are pumping money in, then it will stay. Catch 22.
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I wonder if there's any mileage in having the gp's on a different night of the week or working on a solution with the poles.
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Don't think they could have the Gp's on another night with so many leagues being run in the week. They need to say to the Polish league to scrap the one GP rider rule. It should really be the same rule for all the leagues (i.e. points limit).
Otherwise scrap the GP's & find an alternate. The one off finals were fabulous. Some would say unfair as one ef could ruin it, but these days ef's are few and far between, certainly not as common as they used to be.
I remember Mark Loram winning the world championship but not winning one GP. Consistently the best rider in terms of placings but even though I am a Poole and Loram fan, it never really sat comfortably with me.
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Latest odds for the 2012 GP season.
Bill Hill (http://sports.williamhill.com/bet/en-ca/betting/g/1179583/Series-Winner-2012.html)
Series Winner 2012 - Speedway GP Champion 2012
All Bets
31 Mar 07:15 UK
7/2 Andreas Jonsson
7/2 Jaroslaw Hampel
5/1 Greg Hancock
5/1 Tomasz Gollob
6/1 Emil Sayfutdinov
8/1 Jason Crump
12/1 Chris Holder
14/1 Nicki Pedersen
20/1 Fredrik Lindgren
25/1 Hans Andersen
25/1 Kenneth Bjerre
40/1 Antonio Lindback
50/1 Chris Harris
66/1 Peter Ljung
66/1 Bjarne Pedersen
Any Non Runners - Rule 4 May Apply. One more rider to add to the field.
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Those odds are tight. Think it could be a real tight one this year. Would like to see a new boy step up to the plate and really challenge. . Emil, Holder, Hampel. Andreas also showed us what he can do on a consistent basis.
Gutted Ward declined the place. Would have been great to watch. Next year though.
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I think the winner will come from those you've mentioned, personally I think Holder will win it. He's put together a few good GP's over the last couple of years & this year I expect him to be more consistent. Sayfutdinov will be his biggest challenge I feel.
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Would love "Noddy" to win it. He certainly is getting to grips with the GP's. Emil is a real talent as well.
Mind you ben saying this for a few years but the old boys brigade keep firing. Think this is the year they start to fade away (famous last words).
Hampel is a good bet I reckon as well.
Should be good though...first one in New Zealand...!!! Awesome..
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Holder winning it would be HORRIBLE. Whiny little creep with a penchant for stupid caps, and best friends with somneone of a very questionable nature. Backward step for speedway IMO.
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Who do you think will win it Linus?
I've met Holder & while I won't pretend to know him well, he came across as a decent chap.
What does everyone think about the state of british speedway, who's gonna win what & are there any riders coming through?
Not sure who'll win the elite, but the Brummies could surprise a few this year. As for the gp's, this for me is do or die year for Harris, He needs top 8 & not to scrape in there either. I can't see anyone ready to step up yet either, Woffinden still hasn't progressed & King & Barker whilst stars for the Brummies haven't yet made the step up.
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British speedway is, as always, at a crossroads. We've just about lost another track today in Newport, though there are whispers of a buyout. The simple truth is that the BSPA - their version of the FA - is not fit for purpose and the sport will dwindle while Nero fiddles and all that. They constantly hamper themselves with rule changes that make no sense to the fan but advance the agenda of a select few. Like football, but with no money in it :p
In the Elite League it's a good shout for Swindon for the title, but Poole, Lakeside and Coventry have got a chance, too. The Brummies team has too much of a Frankenstein look to it, more a jumble of riders than an actual team, but you never know in this sport. In the Premier League it's anyone's guess, though Ipswich look good.
There are some good young Brits coming up, but none of them quick enough. The best is probably Nick Morris, who grew up in Australia, and has some off-track problems. Jason Garrity is a name to look out for, and Adam Roynon may do something if he can stay injury-free.
The GPs... well, it's hard to look past the usual names - Hancock, Gollob, Hampel... I think Sayfutdinov has to have a big year, and maybe Lindgren & Holder can make the step, though I doubt it. Harris will never succeed as long they produce tracks with no dirt on them - this hampers Sayfutdinov, too, but he has fast bikes. If you want actual speedway racing, then Harris is one of the world's best. At gate & go, he's a poor second. In the next few years I can see Ward (if he stays out of prison), Pawlicki, Batchelor, Holder, Sundstrom & Sayfutdinov dominating, but the old guys are still too fast for change to happen too soon.
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Holder winning it would be HORRIBLE. Whiny little creep with a penchant for stupid caps, and best friends with somneone of a very questionable nature. Backward step for speedway IMO.
Behave..top bloke, nice chap and class rider, he's just what the sport needs in this country, a breath of fresh air.
Emil will have a say in it this year...and if he stays fit then Ward will win it in the next 5 years. Best rider I have seen for a long long time...
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I'm hearing rumours that their could be gp's in Argentina & Australia in 2013, hope it's true.
Although a quick search reveals nothing.
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Australia must be on worth a good shout given Crump, Batch, Holder, Ward et al. Plus New Zealand have got the opening one this year. Argentina is a strange one?
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Looks like Billy 'the bullet' Hamill is back riding. Apparently he's in the US world cup team.
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Looks like Billy 'the bullet' Hamill is back riding. Apparently he's in the US world cup team.
Yup, with Hamill & Hancock agreeing to ride this year, along with Ryan Fisher & Ricky Wells, they *should* have enough to make the televised rounds. *Should*.
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I went to the Brummies v Wolves meeting last night, the Brummies won 50 - 43. Birmingham look to have a solid team this year with Bjarne Pedersen, Josh Auty, Barker & King leading the way. Last night they threatened to annihilate Wolves & the final score was as close as they got, it has to be said though that apart from Lindgren & Woffy, Wolves look very poor.
Brummies seem a decent punt for a playoff place this year.
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I went to the Brummies v Wolves meeting last night, the Brummies won 50 - 43. Birmingham look to have a solid team this year with Bjarne Pedersen, Josh Auty, Barker & King leading the way. Last night they threatened to annihilate Wolves & the final score was as close as they got, it has to be said though that apart from Lindgren & Woffy, Wolves look very poor.
Brummies seem a decent punt for a playoff place this year.
Saw Wolves vs Poole...looked pretty poor I agree although early days yet. How did Bjarne ride for you? He was much loved down at Poole for many years and didn't let us down too often...top bloke and top rider. Never quite got into that "top" bracket on a consistent basis, but wasn't far off..
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1st GP looming...who do you fancy. First one difficult to call as always. I'll go for Holder, he's the only one I've seen as yet !!
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Crump to roar back to form for me. I'll go for Crump, Holder, Sayfutdinov & Harris as the 4 finalists.
Can't wait for it to start, i'll be bleary eyed at 4 in the morning.
Ladbrokes odds (http://sports.ladbrokes.com/en-gb/Speedway-c210000124)
2012 New Zealand Grand Prix
Jaroslaw Hampel
9/2
Greg Hancock
6/1
Tomasz Gollob
6/1
Andreas Jonsson
6/1
Jason Crump
7/1
Chris Holder
7/1
Emil Sayfutdinov
8/1
Nicki Pedersen
12/1
Kenneth Bjerre
20/1
Fredrik Lindgren
25/1
Hans Andersen
40/1
Antonio Lindback
40/1
Chris Harris
50/1
Bjarne Pedersen
66/1
Peter Ljung
150/1
Jason Bunyan
200/1
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Well done Hancock, once again he rode consistently.
2012 SGP RIDER LINE UP
POS RIDER PTS
1 #1 Greg Hancock 22
2 #3 Jaroslaw Hampel 18
3 #5 Tomasz Gollob 15
4 #10 Nicki Pedersen 13
5 #12 Antonio Lindback 13
6 #4 Jason Crump 12
7 #6 Emil Sayfutdinov 8
8 #9 Fredrik Lindgren 8
9 #13 Bjarne Pedersen 7
10 #15 Hans Andersen 6
11 #11 Chris Harris 5
12 #2 Andreas Jonsson 4
13 #7 Kenneth Bjerre 4
14 #8 Chris Holder 4
15 #14 Peter Ljung 4
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Hancock yet again...fair play to the guy.
Lindback looks like getting back to the rider he once looked like he could have been before his err.... indiscretions & loss of form.
Hampel looked good, Holder was poor. The rest pretty much as I expected.
Was disappointed in the actual meeting itself. Huge track and pretty slick...
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Coventry Bees looking fantastic so far this season - Poole on Friday, and I'm going to both...
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Coventry Poole is always a cracker...Bees look solid this year. Should be a great meeting. 2 Home wins I reckon...
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Great result for Poole this morning...such a shame Ward isn't in the GP's this year...he's pretty special...
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BOOM !! GO Noddy. What a final....Holder was immense there....
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Yep cracking GP & a memorable final aswell. Glad Holder won as the young brigade can now take over.
standings.
2012 SGP RIDER LINE UP
POS RIDER PTS
1 #3 Jaroslaw Hampel 33
2 #1 Greg Hancock 31
3 #5 Tomasz Gollob 31
4 #4 Jason Crump 24
5 #8 Chris Holder 23
6 #10 Nicki Pedersen 23
7 #2 Andreas Jonsson 17
8 #12 Antonio Lindback 17
9 #9 Fredrik Lindgren 16
10 #6 Emil Sayfutdinov 15
11 #7 Kenneth Bjerre 12
12 #15 Hans Andersen 11
13 #14 Peter Ljung 10
14 #13 Bjarne Pedersen 9
15 #11 Chris Harris 8
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Looking forward to tonight's GP, I'm going for Hampel to win here, he's in good form & will want to up the ante in the title stakes. Harris will bag his usual 5 pts & Lindback, Crump & Nicki Pedersen to complete the final line up.
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R.I.P Lee Richardson, died in a crash in Poland, will be sadly missed.
report (http://asia.eurosport.com/motorsports/british-speedway-dies_sto3270215/story.shtml)
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It was terrible news. I was so shocked when I heard this today...RIP Lee..tragic.
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I still can't process it. Bees vs Lakeside off tonight. They're showing Belle Vue vs Birmingham. Not sure I'm ready to see any racing yet.
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I know how you feel...Speedway is such a family type sport they all kind of feel close, if you know what I mean.
I was at Poole many many years ago when Kevin Holden died on the track...difficult to put into words quite how awful it felt.
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theres been a crash at the brummie meeting rider taken to hospital didnt get all the details tho
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Emotional meeting at lakeside with the home team - Richardson's last team - taking on Swindon, where he spent a great deal of his career. Some closure on a horriblr week, hopefully.
Speaking of horrible, closing statements being given in the Darcy Ward trial this afternoon...
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Ward was found not guilty and cleared this afternoon....as was the other guy who was charged.
Good news...although the whole thing seems a waste of time & money by the sound of it.
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Ward was found not guilty and cleared this afternoon....as was the other guy who was charged.
Good news...although the whole thing seems a waste of time & money by the sound of it.
There's no point going into it now but I'd hardly say that. Ward admitted using a make-up tube and a vodka bottle on the girl, causing injuries and bleeding. The other guy filmed it. They both then did a runner. The whole case was sordid and horrible and the only thing the jury - on a 7-5 split - was asked to consider was whether a drunk girl could give consent. Ward is still a vile creature and if it had been my daughter subjected to what he admitted he did in court... well, maybe I'd be the one in prison. The stink will stay for him for a while - not guilty of sexual assault, but guilty of being a sexual deviant.
Still, good speedway from Somerset last night...
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Ward was found not guilty and cleared this afternoon....as was the other guy who was charged.
Good news...although the whole thing seems a waste of time & money by the sound of it.
There's no point going into it now but I'd hardly say that. Ward admitted using a make-up tube and a vodka bottle on the girl, causing injuries and bleeding. The other guy filmed it. They both then did a runner. The whole case was sordid and horrible and the only thing the jury - on a 7-5 split - was asked to consider was whether a drunk girl could give consent. Ward is still a vile creature and if it had been my daughter subjected to what he admitted he did in court... well, maybe I'd be the one in prison. The stink will stay for him for a while - not guilty of sexual assault, but guilty of being a sexual deviant.
Still, good speedway from Somerset last night...
As Middleditch has said...no point in commenting really unless anyone has heard all the evidence, which he has but very few others have. People are quick to jump to conclusions.
Ward and Holder seem to be getting an awful lot of stick from other supporters for no apparant reason. Holder is a complete twat for wearing a silly hat apparantly. Ward is a vile creature is he? You know him then?
Ah well...all over now anyway and yes it was good last night...
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Middleditch didn't hear all the evidence - the only manager/promoter to be in court every day was Swindon's Gary Patchett. I'm not sure what you're defending here - Ward admitted he used a bottle on the girl (and the jury saw film of it), and that the girl received injuries as a result, and that he ran away in a panic. Do you not find that vile?
Yeah, and Holder's hat is ridiculous. Good rider, though.
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Just defending hearsay and Ward. Ward is very close to Middleditch used to live with him, so have no doubt he would have known the whole story. He's gone on record as saying so as well.
Using a bottle...as opposed to a vibrator say. It's not that uncommon. Nor is it to film things. But if there were injuries then of course that's terrible but the way you put it across it's like he was using it to hurt her deliberately. If the jury saw it and he was not guilty, then I'm guessing it wasn't that bad.
Anyway...let's move on shall we..
Yep they are damn good riders the pair of them
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Decent GP. Pleased for Freddie, he deserves one. Hancock just keeps grinding it you doesn't he and don't you just love Nicki!!
Gonna be pretty tight this year by the look of it.
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Best GP of the Season last night...love him or hate him, Nicki Pederson is pure box office....bailed out far too easily for my liking vs Holder. Got his come uppence in the next heat though when he did it again...Emil looked very quick..shame he lost out.
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Just noticed this thread - late, as is usual for me.. >:(.
I have it on my parents authority that I was taken down to the Alex Stadium in the very early 50's - and sat down on the crush barrier with a red & yellow cushion under me bum.....about the only thing I think I can remember is seeing the Harlem Globetrotters as a half time attraction - and some circus lady trick cyclist...
My Mom had a crush on a certain Brummies skipper - which is why my middle name is Graham. 8)
Started going down on the return in 1970 - our whole family went down - we could hear the racing from Kingstanding !!! Always stood on the 3rd bend.
Followed them to a lot of places - some that don't exist any more - Boston, Bristol (Eastville), Eastbourne, Belle Vue, Rye House, Leicester, Stoke (Chesterton), Crewe - as well as Wolves, Coventry and my favourite away track Cradley ('Ammer 'em, Cradley !!).
My sister met her 1st husband on the coach to Stoke.... :D. We stopped going down just before the track closed...great memories though.. especially of the man who was born on 2 wheels - Arthur Browning...
Sweet times...
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Nicki Pedersen is starting to look back to his best in the gp's, I thought he rode superbly last night. Hancock still leads on 97 pts, with Nicki on 91 & Crump/Holder not to far behind, could be a good finish this year. Bring on Cardiff.
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Pederson looked very quick last night...great that it looks like being a close run title..gutted for Holder last night, was starting to look the real deal, hopefully it's not too serious...Cardiff should be immense...
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Going to Lakeside Hammers-v-Brummies this Friday. First time I have been to the speedway since being a Perry Bar regular in the mid 70s. Really looking forward to it. Does anyone know if they have home and away ends at the speedway nowadays?
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Going to Lakeside Hammers-v-Brummies this Friday. First time I have been to the speedway since being a Perry Bar regular in the mid 70s. Really looking forward to it. Does anyone know if they have home and away ends at the speedway nowadays?
And pitch invasions.
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Going to Lakeside Hammers-v-Brummies this Friday. First time I have been to the speedway since being a Perry Bar regular in the mid 70s. Really looking forward to it. Does anyone know if they have home and away ends at the speedway nowadays?
No mate, it's more civilised than football. Just turn up & enjoy. I'm going to the same fixture on wednesday at Perry Barr.
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Going to Lakeside Hammers-v-Brummies this Friday. First time I have been to the speedway since being a Perry Bar regular in the mid 70s. Really looking forward to it. Does anyone know if they have home and away ends at the speedway nowadays?
No mate, it's more civilised than football. Just turn up & enjoy. I'm going to the same fixture on wednesday at Perry Barr.
Thanks. Hope you had a good night on Wednesday.
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Anyone going to the GP on saturday. 6 of us are staying in Newport & making our way into Cardiff on the day, we'll be outside the City Arms around one ish if anyone fancies a pint. Look out for a large/loud group most of which will have wolves speedway shirts on (grrrrr) & a silly sequined american flag with Hancock's name on (the missus). Hope everyone has a good time.
I'm going for a Nicki Pedersen Win & Vaculik to place.
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What an awesome GP that was....and what an awesome performance from Holder.
Best GP series for a long time and it's getting too tight to call...looks like one from Herbie, Noddy and Nicki. Crumpy and Emil outsiders now...
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Holder in Pole position....Hancock looks down on confidence now, Lindback looks so quick lately.
Nicki P far from out of it though not impressed by him fencing Andreas, he knew exactly what he was doing. 3 horse race now I reckon....
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Holder in Pole position....Hancock looks down on confidence now, Lindback looks so quick lately.
Nicki P far from out of it though not impressed by him fencing Andreas, he knew exactly what he was doing. 3 horse race now I reckon....
Holder now a big favourite for me, he seems calm & focused, whereas I agree with you about hancock, he's led for so long that it must be a huge disappointment to let go now.
Yet another disappointing night for Harris, I reckon it's time he stood down & hopefully the promoters give a young brit a slot.
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I agree about Harris. I like they guy but he just isn't up to the standard. Sadly I really don't see any young brit being able to compete at that level right now. Tai Woffendon maybe? It's almost certain that Ward will be in next year. He's considering not riding in the UK due to the fact that he'll be in the GP's.
Greg won't let it go without a fight...if anyone can turn it round he can. Am rooting for Holder of course, he seems to have really come of age the last 3 months. Have a nasty niggling feeling that Nicky Pederson will be very very close. Next GP on his home soil I think, then the last one on Holders Polish home track.
Best GP series for many a year...
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2 points between Holder & Pedersen, it's a kind of good v evil fight. Hancock for me is out of it now, but I still wouldn't rule out him taking advantage of any possible cock ups by Holder & NP. Best GP season in a long time.
Looking forward to the Brummies in the playoffs, I reckon Swindon will win easily over 2 legs, but Birmingham deserve credit for being in this position. The Danny King/Ben Barker partnership is key to any future success.
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It's been an awesome GP series, best ever I think. Torun is Holders home track but NP looks quick and determined and there will be lots of spoilers in Hancock, Gollob, Lindnack, Crump, Emil & co. Gonna be a nail biter.
Of course I hope Holder wins it, but would be nice to see him win it just to break up the dominence of the "old guard"...
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Well done Chris Holder...awesome, deserved and best in the world.
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Glad Holder won, thoroughly deserved. I reckon we may see a few retirements over the winter & a new era starting next year.
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Indeed. Well Crump has gone now and what an awesome rider he has been in the GP's. Think he's the only one as far as I know. Both Gollob and Hancock will be carrying on.
Lindback showing just what a talent he can be, before his errr dubious lifestyle habits. Ward will be in next year plus Emil, Jesper Jensen, one or two of the Poles...it could be as good as this year.
I can't see a Brit being in them though....sad decline of our GB Speedway it seems.
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New line up (http://www.speedwaygp.com/news/article/1969/sgp-2013-wild-cards-revealed) with added Tai Woffinden.
2013 FIM SPEEDWAY GRAND PRIX LINE-UP:
1. Chris Holder (Australia)
2. Nicki Pedersen (Denmark)
3. Greg Hancock (USA)
4. Tomasz Gollob (Poland)
5. Emil Sayfutdinov (Russia)
6. Antonio Lindback (Sweden)
7. Fredrik Lindgren (Sweden)
8. Andreas Jonsson (Sweden)
9. Martin Vaculik (Slovakia)
10. Jaroslaw Hampel (Poland)
11. Krzysztof Kasprzak (Poland)
12. Matej Zagar (Slovenia)
13. Niels Kristian Iversen (Denmark)
14. Tai Woffinden (Great Britain)
15. Darcy Ward (Australia)
16. Wild Card
17. Track Reserve 1
18. Track Reserve 2
QUALIFIED SUBSTITUTES
19. Ales Dryml (Czech Republic)
20. Leon Madsen (Denmark)
21. Troy Batchelor (Australia)
22. Hans Andersen (Denmark)
23. Peter Ljung (Sweden)
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My skiing trip this year is once again at Len Silver's winter residence in La Plagne.
In his early eighties he's still skiing every day in the winter and still running speedway tracks in the summer.
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Good win for the Brummies at coventry (49-41), I fancy them this year, Harris is an excellent choice for a number 1.
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I'm staying at Len Silver's chalet in La Plagne again. World Speedway champion Tai Woffinden is also staying here for a couple of weeks.
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Speedway GP starts in the morning. Who you backing?
(http://img854.imageshack.us/img854/5020/o14h.png) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/854/o14h.png/)
Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)
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Okay, it's summer and you have nothing much to do, right? Because a mile away from Villa Park there's speedway at Perry Barr Greyhound Stadium and crowds are so low lately they're in danger of closing down. Give it a go, if you haven't already?
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Okay, it's summer and you have nothing much to do, right? Because a mile away from Villa Park there's speedway at Perry Barr Greyhound Stadium and crowds are so low lately they're in danger of closing down. Give it a go, if you haven't already?
Too late. http://thebirminghampress.com/2014/07/brummies-speedway-team-forced-out-of-business/
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Okay, it's summer and you have nothing much to do, right? Because a mile away from Villa Park there's speedway at Perry Barr Greyhound Stadium and crowds are so low lately they're in danger of closing down. Give it a go, if you haven't already?
Too late. http://thebirminghampress.com/2014/07/brummies-speedway-team-forced-out-of-business/
Bugger. Hadn't realised the position. Had already arranged to attend the next Lakeside (Essex) - v - Brummies race. Bad year for the regular father/son events with the demise of Fulham as well.
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Just in case it has passed anyone bye, The Brummies are still up and running but are now in the 3rd tier of the sport.
Race nights is now Wednesday and they are in the National League which is a mixture of young up and coming talent and experienced riders
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Just watched one of Tai's races tonight. Some of the moves he makes at times are a class ahead of everyone else (ok, maybe not Hancock).
As I've said before, Tai's an interesting bloke to talk to one-on-one
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Tai is releasing his memoirs. I wonder how many pages he’s given over to telling the story of how he met me ?
https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p07nndl7